With Ruben Amorim’s hopes of signing Brighton and Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba fading due to a £100 million asking price, Manchester United have now reportedly turned their attention to Sevilla midfielder Lucien Agoume.

Exclusive: Manchester United are fearful that spending big on Morten Hjulmand could end their chances of signing Carlos Baleba next year.

Manchester United’s search for a new “athletic” midfielder has thrown up two new names, Morten Hjulmand and Adam Wharton, as the summer transfer window enters its final two weeks. United had shown interest in Brighton & Hove Albion talent Carlos Baleba, a 21-year-old who could both improve the squad in the immediacy and the long-term.

But the news that Brighton have categorically declared him not for sale is the perfect boost at the start of what promises to be a huge season. This is not just about keeping a player; it is a bold declaration of ambition. It proves we are determined to build on last season's progress rather than cash in and start again.

Manchester United fear they will be unable to snare Carlos Baleba if they sign a former Ruben Amorim star this summer

Brighton have named Manchester United-linked midfielder Carlos Baleba in the starting XI for this afternoon's Premier League clash against Fulham. The Seagulls value the midfielder at £115m.

Andre Onana was among players to react to Carlos Baleba's latest message amid rumours about a potential move to Man United.

Fabian Hurzeler told me after the Fulham game that he expects Carlos Baleba to still be at Brighton come the end of the transfer window, and what a boost that will be for the Seagulls. Despite not playing for almost a month,